Ready to jump into documentary

I’m James, a first time documentary filmmaker. Come and join me for a crazy journey to Brazil and around Australia as I follow a mad-keen armwrestler named Jesse.

I feel I need to introduce myself. Good start don’t you think?

Here we go!! I’m 24 years old and grew up in the small town of Merrigum, Victoria. I have amazing and wild childhood memories that may or may not be slightly distorted.

My favourite memory is the legendary ambushing of my mum and Nathan’s mum with all the neighbourhood kids using water bombs.

This ambushing memory still brings a huge grin to my face and Nathan’s too. A look from my mum that says that she is trying not to laugh and stay mad at me.

We did nice things too like the time we made fireworks for Nathan’s mum’s 40th party.

I was born with a genetic condition called Neurofibromatosis which has resulted in me having a short attention span (I’ve gotten up like 20 times while writing this blog). It effected my schooling and I become lost in the system.

This had a knock on affect on to my reading and writing levels. I became frustrated and lost interest in classes.

Until I found art and media which kept me going through school.

I didn’t pursue my love for art and media into university because teachers and kids at school teased me and lowered my self-esteem. But I kept it as a hobby. I did all kinds of filmmaking such as weddings, music videos for my friends band (Rare Child) and doing my church youth group news. I had good ideas but I failed to master the skills to get the results that I was happy with. Then I went along to a 110% workshop where I made Never Give Up, got the skills I wanted and fell in love with documentary. Thank Benj Binks!!

Now I am starting a documentary about my mate Jesse and his journey to become the best armwrestler that he can be. This will include a trip to Brazil for the World Championships and competitions all around the country including the Australian Championships. It’s going to be a really sweet and crazy journey.

I first met Jesse years ago on a camp. I always found his dedication to the sport of armwrestling amazing (and maybe a bit crazy too).

When I first had the idea of this documentary after doing 110%, Benj said, “Just jump dude.” So I did!! I still feel like I am in free fall with the parachute yet to deploy.

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Comments

James Wilson

thanks guys. I am so pumped to this doco and getting to share it everyone.

Dan

James, I'll be following you and the story your following. As kids we used to have arm wrestling completions in the school yard. The hype and excitement was primal. Your going to have such a great experience. Well done mate.

John

James, a really good read. Loved it! Now I know how to find you here I'll keep logging on. BU.

natalie

James, I really enjoyed your first instalment. I'll be back to read more of your adventure as it unfolds via the keyboard.

Roxley

Wow, great story. Have a wonderful time travelling and creating your documentary. Wishing you lots of success. Good on you.

Vanessa

I'm glad you found your calling so early in life, it's an exciting road ahead. And I know exactly what you mean about getting up 20 times whilst writing a blog! Thanks for sharing the journey.

liz arcus

This is awesome James. It has been wonderful to meet you through 110% and work with you on Never Give Up. It is wonderful to read your blog post here and get to know even more. I am so very excited that you are going to Brazil and the documentary you are doing. Have an amazing time ! I can't wait to see what you do and here all about it .

james

Great work Wilson! You can take on that mantra as well: NEVER GIVE UP!... just don't go TOO crazy! ;)